Skype, the popular video messaging app owned by Microsoft, is finally delivering on updates that were promised last October.

The new upgrades should help alleviate some of the frustration that came from trying to use Skype’s messaging features, which would send notifications to every device that was logged in to a Skype account. Notifications now sync across devices, which should help eliminate duplicate notifications, which until now sat pending until a user logged on to that specific device. In addition, messages that are sent over Skype will always be delivered, even if you are offline, something that in the past was a little frustrating.

Facebook announced on Thursday that instead of being limited to identifying gender as male or female, users in the United States can now select a custom gender. Facebook also will ask for a custom pronoun to use when using the phrase, “they.”

The change is probably a small when examining the code behind the user interface, but it is is reflective of the a shift in societal norms. LGBTQI members can now feel a little more comfortable on Facebook with the option to accurately self-identify.

Back in October of 2013, Google teased users with a countdown timer for a few days. All that was required was inputting a simple term, “Set timer for 30 minutes.” But the timer was taken away, and the Internet had to provide timers in other places.

But, Google has brought back the timer!

The timer is a simple tool, with a popup window appearing at the top of the page after starting the countdown. When the timer hits zero, you can silence the alarm or just turn it off — and you will want to turn it off, it’s incessant. The timer can also be paused or reset easily.

TNW Labs has added integration of IFTTT and Push.co, making a way for you to create another way to stay informed and connected.

IFTTT uses recipes that allow one to connect your smart devices together and automate parts of your social media usage. Push.co sends out news updates, and linking the service with IFTTT just made sense, TNW co-founder Patrick de Laive said. TNW is offering Push.co for free until February 28, so download the app while you can.

The latest iOS app that is more canine than humanoid is Wonderwoof. Your dog is monitored by an on-callar ‘bow-tie’ connected device that is a GPS tracker and pedometer that communicates with an owner’s app.

The dog gets its own profile, which will help you and your pet set health objectives, track exercise progress and goals and earn ’bones’ for rewards. The app can also provide reminders about medical visits and grooming trips as well as when it’s time to be fed and when playtime is. The app also helps the dog socialize with an in-app Twitter feed — clearly the best way for dogs to talk to each other.